Are Dental Implants Worth the Investment?

When faced with a missing tooth or teeth, patients today are fortunate to have more options than ever before for restoring a complete, beautiful, and functional smile. One common question patients ask when weighing their options for restorative dental work is why they should choose dental implants over other less expensive or invasive options. While the most appropriate treatment may be different from patient to patient, there are certainly some general benefits of dental implants that may be worth considering. Find more information about investing in your long-term oral and dental health with dental implants in this blog from Dr. Ernest De Paoli and the experienced team at Advanced Smiles in Frisco, TX.

An overview of dental implants

First, it may be helpful to review the purpose of dental implants, the process of placing dental implants, and other fundamental aspects of implant dentistry. The term "dental implant" actually refers to the metal screw or post that is surgically embedded in the patient’s jawbone. Once the implant has fully integrated with the bone structure and is stable enough to support a restoration, a custom crown, bridge, denture, or another attachment will be affixed to the implant with a connector piece, known as an abutment. Dental implants are often used to replace one or more teeth due to trauma, tooth damage or decay, developmental abnormalities, and other oral or periodontal conditions.

Is the cost of dental implants really worth it?

Dental implants may require more of an up-front financial investment than other options, like removable dentures, for example, but there are many compelling reasons to consider dental implants — including their longevity and reliability. Some of the benefits of dental implants that make them one of the most popular and widely used restorative dental services today include:

• Durability: Dental implants are engineered to be strong and long-lasting, helping to keep a patient’s smile looking and functioning its best for decades.
• Functionality: Compared with other restorative options, dental implants allow patients to eat, chew, smile, laugh, and talk more naturally and comfortably.
• Preservation: By placing a dental implant into the jawbone, it stimulates healthy tissue and helps preserve the structure of the face and mouth — much like a natural tooth root would do.
• Confidence: With dental implants and implant-supported restorations, patients do not have to worry about removable dentures falling out and other potential problems of that nature. Instead, patients can confidently enjoy their beautiful, complete, durable, and long-lasting new smile.

How long does it take to get dental implants?

The timeline for getting dental implants will vary from patient to patient based on their existing oral health and other factors. In some cases, patients may require the treatment of periodontal disease, a bone or gum graft, or other treatment to restore healthy tissues and a structurally sound environment prior to placing an implant. Once the implant is placed, the process of osseointegration will begin to occur, after which time the new restoration can be attached to the implant. On average, this can take up to 6 – 12 months. During your initial consultation at Advanced Smiles, Dr. De Paoli will perform a comprehensive evaluation and discuss a recommended dental implant treatment plan and timeline that is personalized just for you.

Restore the confidence and function you deserve with dental implants in Frisco, TX

Having a beautiful, strong, healthy smile you can feel confident about is priceless. Learn more about the lifelong benefits of dental implants today by calling Advanced Smiles to schedule your consultation and exam with Frisco, TX dentist Dr. Ernest De Paoli.